It was first identified in the 1960s in captive mule deer in Colorado, USA. Since then, it has spread across North America, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and parts of South Korea and concerns over its zoonotic potential and public health impact are growing.

CWD has been detected in at least 32 US states, four Canadian provinces, and multiple European regions, mainly among wild reindeer and moose. It spreads via direct animal contact and environmental contamination, while prions can persist in soil, water, and vegetation for a longer period.

Human activities, such as animal translocation and improper carcass disposal, exacerbate its spread. EFSA emphasizes stringent surveillance and biosecurity measures to curb its expansion.

Infected animals exhibit prolonged asymptomatic periods before developing weight loss, behavioral changes, excessive salivation, swallowing difficulties, and motor impairments. Advanced cases result in emaciation and severe neurological deficits. Diagnosis relies on post-mortem examination, with IHC and ELISA as common tools. Advanced molecular techniques like real-time quaking-induced conversion have improved sensitivity for detecting preclinical cases.

While no confirmed human cases exist, experimental studies suggest CWD prions can convert human prion proteins under certain conditions, raising concerns about species barrier breaches. No direct link between CWD and human prion diseases like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease has been found, but continued monitoring is essential

Human exposure primarily occurs through consuming contaminated meat or handling infected animals. The CDC advises against consuming meat from infected animals and recommends testing in endemic areas and EFSA stresses the need for comprehensive risk assessments and public awareness campaigns.

CWD threatens wildlife populations, ecosystems, and potentially public health. While zoonotic risk remains unconfirmed, precautionary measures are vital. Enhanced surveillance, improved diagnostics, and strict biosecurity measures are necessary to control its spread. Continued research is essential to assess its zoonotic potential and develop effective mitigation strategies.